Enjoy the Slow Life in Hilo

Hilo has a special kind of charm. Unlike other major destinations in Hawaii, you won’t see high-rise hotels or glitzy shopping areas. What you will find is an appreciation for the slow life embedded with local ideals like living with aloha and respecting the aina (earth). Thanks to constant rain throughout the year, you’ll also find plenty of lush greenery on this side of the Big Island.

Home to one of the world’s largest astronomical observatories, Mauna Kea is an amazing place to see the stars! Get to the Visitor Information Station before sunset to make sure you make it for the free nightly stargazing program, which starts at 6:00 pm. Please note: this location is not accessible by private vehicle. There are private tours that go to the summit, which are recommended.

Hawaii’s youngest island continues to grow thanks to Kilauea’s active lava flow. Start at the Visitor Center to learn about current park conditions and active lava flow locations. Then drive down the Chain of Craters Road, park your car and see the beautiful Holei Sea Arch. The Thurston Lava Tube is also fun and easily accessible by car. For beginner to avid photographers, Extreme Exposure offers personalized or group lava photo tours.

Take a quick 30-minute drive from Hilo to Akaka Falls State Park. Parking is $5 per car, and it’s an easy walk through lush vegetation down to the falls. If looking closer to town, try Rainbow Falls instead, but you should definitely consider stretching for Akaka Falls.

This festival is at the top of my Big Island bucket list! Every spring, Hilo comes to life with a weeklong hula festival and competition. See the best dancers and halaus (schools) that exemplify the beauty, strength and grace of this traditional Hawaiian dance.

The Hilo Farmers Market is a must! Go on Wednesdays and Saturdays, where there are over 200 local farmers and crafters. The selections are phenomenal, with fresh lilikoi, star fruit, and rambutan when in season. I recommend the apple bananas, strawberry papayas and local avocado!

Get ready for big portions, reasonable prices and simple good food. This is a great breakfast spot offering everything from pancakes and French toast to Kalua Hash and Portuguese sausage with eggs. There’s something here for everyone.

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This post was written by Hilton Suggests Team Member, Hitomi O. Are you interested in traveling to Hilo? Let us know if we can help you with any other recommendations. Tweet us for more great local travel tips!